Frustrated by a Charleston Stopper (Letter 11)

I’m an experienced player and recently played with a group that included two beginners and another seasoned player. Throughout the game, the experienced player stopped the Charleston in every game, which seemed to frustrate one of the beginners. At one point, the beginner asked if she had tiles to pass, and the experienced player replied that she didn’t. It appeared to the rest of us that she prefers not to complete a full Charleston, which caused some tension. Interestingly, after playing for two hours, the player who repeatedly stopped the Charleston won only once. Do you have any suggestions for how to handle this situation?

Seeking Fair Play

Dear Seeking Fair Play,

It sounds like you’re caught in a tricky spot with a Charleston stopper, and that can take the fun out of the game. Don’t worry; you’re not alone—many players face the same frustration because the choice hinders hand development for everyone at the table. The challenge is that per league rules, every player has the prerogative to stop the Charleston after the first left, no questions asked. Whether a player stops the Charleston on occasion or every time, it is bad form to question them.

I have asked Charleston stoppers why they do this, and many said they feel justified in exercising the option every time as a strategy because it is not uncommon for the same tiles to be passed in the second round. Players opposite the Charleston stopper have one recourse: they can decline to participate in the optional across.

Everyone is free to use any strategy if they follow the rules. If someone’s style of play affects your enjoyment, it may be helpful to address your feelings openly. If playing with this group becomes unbearable because of the Charleston stopper, consider finding a group that better aligns with your preferences and appreciation of the game.